The IML Group announced the launch of Bab Al Shabab (BAS), a unique and interactive online engagement platform for university students in the UAE.

Bab Al Shabab, meaning Doorway to Youth in Arabic, is created to make student-life in the region easier and fun through providing information and an avenue for interaction with peers. Offering free membership until September, the portal will allow students to connect and voice their opinions.

The portal will additionally deliver a host of tailored offerings from top businesses across the UAE, including discounts, job opportunities and access to events. Students can additionally link their social networking accounts to their Bab Al Shabab membership.

Rayne Botha, Account Director, Bab Al Shabab, said: “IML Group is a core marketing company. We are diversifying our business to bridge the gap in the market. An exclusive student community, Bab Al Shabab will respond to the need among students for an independent platform for dialogue.”

From a business perspective, Bab Al Shabab is a distinctive concept for the region that will bridge the gap and facilitate communication between retailers and the large student community.

Joumana Saad

Before joining SME Advisor, I worked as a producer/reporter for Forbes Media in New York. I obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and International Studies at the University of South Florida in the US. I am currently in Dubai working as Sub-Editor for SME Advisor Middle East, which is a business magazine published by CPI. You can follow me on Twitter: @joumanasaad or @SMEadvisorME and (Joumana Saad) or (SME Advisor) on LinkedIn.

SME Advisor Middle East is aimed at business owners and senior executives across the GCC. Armed with practical advice, it has been highlighting key business issues for the small and medium enterprise segment since its launch in 2005.